Sugar Craving: Some Healthy Alternatives That May Help To Fix It
It is present in our processed foods - even those as 'fitness-approved' as healthy breads and salad dressings. To add up, even the sucrose, glucose and fructose are addictive. Is there a way out, really?
Well, we can always play wise and replace our sugars with something healthier. Of course, the addiction kicks in as a craving, but they could actually indicate that you're exhausted, dehydrated, or running out of a certain nutrient.
Let's explore some healthy options when the sugar craving arises.
Fresh homemade smoothies
Smoothies are often made without peeling a fruit's skin off, thus retaining so many important vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals.
These fruits bring in fiber, thus regulating digestion and controlling blood sugar. Play smart and also get a dose of yogurt, for a healthy boost of taste.
If you strike the right balance of fruits and vegetables, a smoothie become can become such a treat!
Breakfast cereals
Sugar craving can often indicate an underlying imbalance of blood sugar. Most of the breakfast cereals contain simple carbs that break down into sugar and prevent any ongoing energy crashes our body may be going through.
Thus, if you catch yourself reaching out for a muffin or cookies, grab some oatmeal instead. To make it fancier, get some honey, nutmeg, cinnamon, nuts or alike flavoring agents that do you good.
Cinnamon
When we first got our hands-on the Egyptian treasure Cinnamon almost 2000 years back, little had we known it could regulate our blood sugar levels.
But since it marks a noble contribution from the world of spices, we rather use it in a befitting manner. Several studies have shown that the potent polyphenols in cinnamon help to reduce sugar cravings.
Apples
Chromium is an important element for our body, because it further manages how our body retains its carbohydrates, fats and proteins. The old adage "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" wasn't popular for nothing.
Apples are known to contain ample chromium to keep one's intake on point. Simply sprinkle some honey or cinnamon powder onto a sliced apple, and microwave for 30-40 seconds to get your own answer to an apple pie.
Dates
Just a handful of dates can make up for almost 6-7% of your body's daily intake of potassium, which controls blood sugar and prevents osteoporosis and stroke. To add up, dates encourage the intestinal tendency to produce good bacteria.
Besides, they are an easy substitute to sugar in several homemade desserts. However, since each pitted date adds up 23 calories, they better be eaten carefully and you must consult your medical practitioner if you are diabetic or pre-diabetic.
Beetroot
If you have never found enough inspiration to become a beetroot fan all these years, then now is the time. High on Vitamin B and iron, beets can become your defense for arthritis, cancer, migraine, and dental ailments.
We will not even begin to count how energetic just 2-3 slices of beetroot can make you within no time. To assemble a quick salad, slice some beets, roast them, and serve with peppery greens garnished with goat cheese and some crushed walnuts.
Medical Disclaimer: The information and reference materials contained here are intended solely for the general information of the reader. Patients and consumers should review the information carefully with their professional health care provider. The information is not intended to replace medical advice offered by physicians. You should consult your physician before beginning a new diet, nutritional or fitness program.